Month: July 2013

Fall for Me by Ann Lister

17913095Title:  Fall For Me

Series:  The Rock Gods, Book #1

Author:  Ann Lister

Genre:   Contemporary

Length:  Novel (408 pages)

Publisher:  SleighFarm Publishing Group (May 11, 2013)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:  Entertainment journalist, Ryan Pierce, meets the infamous bad-boy rocker, Dagger Drummond, and walks away with a great interview and a scandalous news bit that has the potential to turn the music world on its ear. Exposing the story would boost Ryan’s career, but it would also come with the risk of ruining Dagger’s privacy – and possibly his Rock God status.

The unlikely friendship that develops between Dagger and Ryan brings Ryan to question more than just his journalistic oath to report the news. It also forces him to take a look at himself and newly discovered feelings – feelings that make Ryan blind to the risk of becoming front-page news himself.

Will Ryan find the courage to make a life decision to give himself true happiness with Dagger or take the path that would likely lead to heartbreak and destroy his career forever?

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CQWDQA6

Reviewer:   Tams

Review: Ryan Pierce is a journalist for a popular music magazine in LA. He’s interviewed more rock stars than he can remember. Unbeknownst to him, his next interview is going to turn his world upside down and make him question who he is. Dagger Drummond is rock star gold. Everything about him oozes sex appeal, from his striking good looks to his air of confidence. The fact that he truly is a talented singer/songwriter is just a plus. Ryan gets a great interview from the meeting, but when he returns for something he left behind, he learns a secret Dagger will do anything to keep that way.

Dagger has kept the truth about his sexuality a secret for fear it would ruin his career. Ryan has lived his life as a straight man, never even considering he might be gay, until he meets Dagger. The attraction is evident from the start, but Ryan denies it to Dagger and even to himself for the longest time. The two form a unique bond of friendship based on late night phone calls, random texts, trust, and mutual attraction. Dagger is a good boy though, and keeps his hands to himself until he’s sure Ryan is ready to reciprocate. A snake in the grass, a jackass that is jealous not only of their relationship, but of Ryan’s success as well threatens to tear this couple apart before they can even commit to each other.

What a fantastic love story between the two most unlikely victims. Dagger has to work for Ryan’s affections and trust me they are well-earned. This is not an add water equals love story. No, this was a slow ride to make it to the finish line. I’m not usually a fan of angst, but Lister made that aspect of the story work in her favor by turning it into an internal debate Ryan had with himself about who he was. And more importantly who he wanted to be. There was a role reversal along the way that threw me at first, as Ryan become the strength where as it was usually Dagger. But it played out beautifully.

I enjoyed a fellow bloggers review of this book where she stated she is not usually a fan of M/M books, and even though she skipped the sex scenes in this book, she LOVED the love story. I think that’s the best description for this book. I don’t recommend skipping the sex scenes though, I read those twice actually. These two are just plain sexy as hell once they get going, and they don’t know when to stop. They love to kiss and oh, my god Lister knows how to write those kisses, I was fanning myself before they ever even made it past that first kiss!

I will recommend a tall glass of water, a fan, and some Kleenex before you begin. Fans of sexy, passionate alpha male loves stories with a good dose of angst and some emotionally charged chapters will love this book.

Livin' on the Edge by Dee Dee Brock

044f344d3eb3dd86bf23df6d19ab480b.image.300x450Title: Livin’ on the Edge

Series: Edge Series, Book #1

Author: Dee Dee Brock

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novel (255 pages)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (July 27th, 2013 )

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts

Heat: Low

Blurb: Brothers Wes and Scottie formed their band ‘Edge’ seven years ago. Wes has always known that he prefers men, but he’s never indulged with a fan until Micah. Will he deny his once in a lifetime chance at true happiness?

Brothers, Wes and Scottie Townsend, formed their band ‘Edge’ seven years ago. At the top of the alternative scene, they’re enjoying the perks of their success. Well, Wes had been, up until he spots a gorgeous fan he can’t seem to take his eyes off of. Wes has always known that he prefers men, but everyone including his brother is none the wiser. And he’s never indulged with a fan. Ever. Until him. After one passionate night with Micah Jameson, Wes’ closet status is in jeopardy. Will he open his heart and risk all that’s he’s built, or will he bury himself in lies and deny a once in a lifetime chance at true happiness?
CONTENT ADVISORY: This story contains both MM and MF sexual situations

Product Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/livin-on-the-edge-ebook-p-1506.html

Reviewer:  Cat

Review: Wes is the leader of a very popular alternative rock band with his brother and two friends. He is also bi-sexual but no one knows this secret and everyone thinks he is very straight. He has kept this secret in check until he sees someone in the crowd that he can’t get out of his head or ignore that secret craving. That someone is a he and becomes an obsession that changes his life drastically.

I really liked this story a lot. At first, I just liked it but as things went on and unfolded, I liked it even more. I have to admit Wes isn’t a very likeable character, at least not at first. I wanted to hate him but grew sorry for him, then actually liked him later in the book once he got over his wallowing in self-pity and seeming so whiny and actually decided to make a stand for what he wants. I actually loved Nate. The story line is very good about a man closeted; trying to decide if what he wants is worth all the risks. I found it very poignant. I’ll have to say it’s a darn good romance and one that though I didn’t like Wes at first I had to see how things unfolded.

Recommendation: If you like heartfelt romance, coming out stories, undeniable love, sweet, sensual sex, and rock stars this is for you!

White Bone, Red Sky by Evelyn Shepard

es_whiteboneredskyTitle: White Bone, Red Sky

Series: Theo Bourne 03

Author: Evelyn Shepherd

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (226pgs)

Publisher: Loose Id (9th July 2013)

Heat: Explicit

Heart: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Theo and Carlos are called out of vacation when a madman called the Bogeyman begins to butcher small children. It’s a race against more than the clock as a third victim is abducted. The FBI has stepped in to put an end to the terror that has seized Columbus, but with very few clues to go on, Theo and Carlos are left scrambling for answers. Rhett Bishop just might be the help they’ve been looking for, but it comes with a price – one Theo isn’t sure is worth paying.

 

The deeper they delve into the bloody massacre rocking Columbus, the more things spin out of control. Theo struggles with his own crippling fears and tries to build the courage to ask Carlos one of the most important questions of his life. But things can never go easy for the two detectives, and as they sort through their case, Carlos begins a battle of his own. A contender has stepped up to take Carlos’s place as Alpha of the local werecoyote pack. If Carlos isn’t careful, he may lose more than his position as pack leader.

Purchase Link: http://www.loose-id.com/white-bone-red-sky-a-theo-bourne-story.html

Review: This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Theo and Carlos have just returned from their vacation when they are called in to investigate a madman who is butchering young children, the press and children of Columbus have already labelled him the Bogeyman and it is up to Theo and Carlos to stop him before a third victim is butchered. When the FBI steps in Theo is suspicious, as the agent seems to be keeping secrets, but with very few clues to go on and with no answers in sight Theo and Carlos have no choice but to trust the agent. When Rhett Bishop gets in touch saying he has information, Theo discovers that the foe they face is extremely dangerous and deadly. As Carlos and Theo investigate, Carlos also has to face problems in his pack as a contender comes forward to challenge him for the Alpha position, and Theo has to fight his own fears if he is to ask Carlos the most important question of his life.

This is a great story continuing the turbulent relationship of Carlos and Theo, chasing a deranged killer and putting an end to the dissent in Carlos’ pack. There are quite a few things happening in this story that get briefly pulled together, it adds excitement and danger to a story that is already filled with it but it also adds confusion for Theo and Carlos. Theo is trying to build up the courage to ask Carlos an important question but his own doubts and fears are holding him back, but another brush with death convinces him to take the bull by the horns. Carlos is fighting to keep hold of his Alpha position but Theo’s actions are not helping his case at all, trying to get Theo to back off is especially hard.

Theo and Carlos are wonderful in this book, they have explosive chemistry and strike sparks off each other and when they have sex *wipes brow* they are smoking hot. The storyline was great and I really liked how Theo was trying to get into the head of the killer, trying to see how he would have done things but always coming up stumped on why the killer was doing it. Carlos’ power struggle and Theo’s reaction to it was great, we can see Theo wanting to step back and let Carlos handle it but the fear of losing Carlos has him acting in ways that cause more problems. How Carlos reacted to the undermining of his authority was superbly done but I am glad that forgiveness came quickly after.

All in all I really enjoyed this book but there was one big niggle for me, when they were all about to head off for the big confrontation against a killer with powers that had never been seen before, Theo was wondering if there was anything that could give them an advantage and I could only shake my eReader and scream ‘the bloody drug’. I won’t go into it any more than that, but something that took Theo out should have worked on the killer as well.

I have to recommend this book if you want a preternatural crime story, you love smoking hot sex, you want to see a lot of danger, some cool wicked powers, love and forgiveness, catching a killer in a wicked battle and a great ending.    

Out of Blackness by Carter Quinn

Web_CQ_Out_of_the_blackness-682x1024Title:  Out of Blackness

Series:  N/A

Author:  Carter Quinn

Genre:  LGBT fiction, a bit of M/M romance with a history of abuse.

Length:  Novel (361 pages)

Publisher:  Carter Quinn Books (July 9th 2013)

Heat Level:  Mild

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   A childhood of abuse has left Avery so physically and emotionally scarred he believes he shouldn’t be alive. His only sanctuary has been his relationship with his older foster brother Sam. Avery finally lets Sam convince him to start therapy to help overcome his crippling anxiety, but even that can’t prepare him for the upheaval caused by meeting Noah Yates.

Noah is everything Avery fears. He’s large and physically powerful—and undeniably capable of destroying Avery’s hard-earned progress. Although Noah seems to have a tender streak when it comes to him, Avery is terrified of being victimized again. But no matter how many times he tries to push him away, Noah never goes far.

Noah wants to save Avery, but can he be the catalyst Avery needs to begin the journey out of the blackness?

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DUPVNNK?ie=UTF8&tag=httpwwwgoodco-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00DUPVNNK&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Overall, this was a fantastic book. It’s mentally exhausting and an emotional roller coaster ride, but the characters and content keep the reader focused on the bigger picture that Quinn is trying to convey within this book.

Avery has been mentally, physically, and emotionally abused by everyone in his life that mattered. His father died when he was very young leaving him with his mother who constantly reminded him that he was just a botched abortion. His stepfather and step brothers beat him almost daily while belittling and beguiling him along the way. After his mother uses the ill-fated and short-lived firehouse rule to drop him off at a local firehouse he was placed in a group home. Although the abuse was far from over, his life definitely took a turn for the better when he met another young orphan, Sam.

Sam is Avery’s best friend, confident and big brother. Not relations by blood, but bound together by circumstance, these two young men defy traditional barriers of family and make a life that works, for the most part. The straight policeman is comfortable in his role as the protective big brother, but Avery has a feeling that one day Sam will leave him. Enter Noah. Noah is tall, blonde, and broodingly handsome. He first meets Avery in the alley between their places of employment. Avery is obviously leery and downright freaked out as Noah is the poster boy for everything Avery fears. But Noah is immediately smitten with the shy, standoffish young man he meets in the alley.

As the book progresses we learn more of Avery’s back story and the extent of the abuse he’s suffered. We also get to watch Noah court Avery and the slow, gradual process of building trust, falling in love and ultimately proving to Avery that he’s not going to hurt him. That he’s in it to win it!

The content of this book might be difficult for some readers but the writing is stellar. Quinn does a fantastic job of transporting the reader into Avery’s world, so that you feel every emotion along the way. And the usual meaning of the phrase ‘In the Closet’ doesn’t apply in this book. Avery’s closest is more of a sanctuary and has absolutely nothing to do with his sexuality, but I do like the presence of the metaphor and the twist Quinn used for the terminology.

I loved this book, but as far as recommending it… it’s difficult to determine who would or wouldn’t like it. You will be emotionally spent, as the content is detailed and tormented. There isn’t really sex to speak of, but there is a LOT of kissing and a jack off scene that will blow your mind! The story of Avery as he relives his nightmares faces his demons and ultimately falls in love with Noah was breath-taking. As difficult as it is to read Avery’s memories, it’s as equally satisfying to watch him and Noah build their relationship, find trust, and fall deeply in love. 

 

Entangled by Lex Valentine

13699777Title:  Entangled

Series:  This was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group’s ‘Love is Always Write’ event

Author:  Lex Valentine

Genre:   Contemporary Romance

Length:  Novella (46 pages)

Publisher:  M/M Romance group @Goodreads (May 29th 2012)

Heat Level:  Moderate to Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   A rainy night brought him to me. Now, he sits nude, (wrapped in the smallest blanket I found) nursing a brandy and telling me his life story. Which I’m not really listening to, since I’m busy planning the way to make this straight buddy bend for me – or vice versa, I really don’t care, as long as we end up tangled and satisfied. Please, don’t think I’m a selfish jerk, because my crush on him is epic.

Product Link:  http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/882553-lex-valentine-entangled

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Short, Sexy, and Steamy… say it with me, my three favorite colors!

Daren and Taylor have been best friends for years. They’ve also been secretly in love with each other since about 5 minutes after they met. Daren never acted on his feelings for Taylor, assuming he was straight. Taylor definitely lived up to his rocker, bad boy, girl on each arm image. One rainy night after Taylor’s recent show, his relationship with Daren will change, for better or for worse, forever.

What was once thought of as unrequited love quickly becomes unconditional love in this heartwarming short. Extremely hot, sexy and passionate. Daren and Taylor explore the depths of their newly discovered long-term attraction to one another with wanton desire and years of pent-up sexual frustration.

If you are looking for something quick and sexy, just go grab this one now. Valentine manages to capture an actual story in the few pages of this novella, adding some steamy sex as frosting!

A Marrying Man by Sandrine Gasq-Dion

530263_410416262410563_1128590280_nTitle:  A Marrying Man

Series:  sequel to A Betting Man

Author:  Sandrine Gasq -Dion

Genre:   Contemporary Romance

Length:  Novella (40,000 words)

Publisher:  Wilde City Press (July 17th 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   It’s been almost a year since a disastrous bet dropped Blaine McKlintock and his best friend, Kent Samson in hot water. Now, Kent is getting ready to propose to Terry Barron. Blaine couldn’t be happier for his best friend, but when Kent asks Blaine to plan the wedding, Blaine is thrown for a loop, especially when Kent drops another bomb. Spencer Cassidy will be helping. Blaine remembers Spencer very well, but the former Wall Street force doesn’t seem to remember him. Blaine’s changed a lot since the bet, but will Spencer see it too?

Product Link:  http://www.wildecity.com/books/gay-romance/a-marrying-man/#.Ue3Ypr4o45s

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  We were first introduced to Blaine McKlintock and Spencer Cassidy in book 1, A Betting Man. Blaine is successful and stunning, but he’s missing that someone in his life that would complete him. Spencer is just gloriously sexy and he’s obviously caught Blaine’s eye, but he hasn’t quite gotten over the whole ordeal with the bet and still holds that grudge against Blaine. And he’s straight right? Or so Blaine keeps telling himself.

It doesn’t take long for Spencer to notice the effect he has on Blaine, the man can’t seem to form coherent sentences or not trip over his feet when he’s in the same room with Spencer. This doesn’t bode well since they are not only the best men for their best friends, Terry and Kent, but they are their wedding planners as well. Can Blaine and Spencer find time for love in the midst of floral arrangements, caterers, and photographers? Or will secrets and a very vindictive ex-wife tear them apart at the seams.

The dialogue was fresh with a bit of dry humor, the story flowed, and the plot was believable. Strong MC’s surrounded by secondary characters with just as much depth and reality as them, made this an intriguing story to read. There were only a couple steamy guy on guy scenes, but what the author lacked in quantity she definitely included in the quality. Hot-cha-cha!!! I especially liked the ‘gift’ that Slater, Spencer’s brother, gave him and how Blaine put it to damn good use!

Gasq-Dion fans rejoice. She has done it again. I definitely recommend this book as well as any other book this author has penned. She has a knack for building a story for the main characters, but always keeping you involved with the secondary characters lives as well, without taking away from the core of the current story. I’m excited to see what comes next… Slater and Casper’s story; or Drakon and Matthew. Oh the horror of waiting, fans please flood SGD inbox with requests that she write faster!

A Little Weird by J.B. McDonald

tmp_e83bd6c1b47b4cd75ce1bb5b1255c9c8_XNvDsH_html_468b5269Title: A Little Weird

Series: A Torquere Ménage
  
Author: J.B. McDonald
  
Genre:  Contemporary Polyamory, MMF ménage, D/s

Length: Novel (278 pages)

Publisher: Torquere Press Publishers (July 10th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb: Kel has seen his share of weird throughout his life, but when London asks him to sub for her and her boyfriend, that tops the list. He isn’t gay. He isn’t bi. He definitely isn’t submissive. And with an underlying case of post-traumatic stress disorder from years in the military, anything BDSM just sounds dangerous.

But he also doesn’t want to see his friends hurt, and he’s positive that will happen if they get together with strangers from the Internet. London plays things too close to the vest for him to get a good enough read on her, but Kel trusts Ty, even if he doesn’t think he’ll enjoy turning over control. It’ll be a one-off, it’ll be a little weird, and they’ll all go back to normal.

He’s not sure what to do when a little weird turns out to be something he wants.

Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=3939

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: A Little Weird is a little bit believable friends to lovers ménage, that includes two damaged minds, a hot and physically strong redhead, and her Dominant and cool-headed lover. The steady, sexually adventurous couple attempt to bring a friend into their ménage as a sub, knowing he’s going to be a challenge but determined to make it work. All odds aside, the scenes seem successful, and the three build on their trust and attraction. The PTSD situations are palpable, and you can just tell London is barely this side of crazy but in a good way. For those who are more into m/m, be warned that London plays a central role, and is very involved in each sexual encounter. I do enjoy the psychological D/s situations in storytelling, and this story is a good example of that. No bondage unless you can count a blindfold, no whips, paddles or other use of pain; mostly D/s and edging.

The Master's Conflict by Elaine C. Markowicz and William Alberto

product_thumbnail.phpTitle: The Master’s Conflict

Series:  N/A

Author: Elaine C. Markowicz and William Alberto
 
Genre: Paranormal, vampire, witches, maybe BDSM

Length: Novel

Publisher: Paranormal Love Productions/Lulu

Heat Level:  Explicit

Blurb: Stone Peterson was as cold and hard as his name implied. Tossed from one foster home to the other is what gave Stone his cruel edge. He trusted no one. Men were for his pleasure only. Owning a leather bar, he had the choice of many. A guy would kill to be one night with Stone. But his method of fucking was rough and crude. He didn’t care who he hurt. That is, until he met Ian. Ian Holtz was a shy, retiring young man who felt shunned by his family. Always trying to please others, he would do anything to win Stone Peterson’s approval. Despite Stone’s cruel treatment, Ian loved him. He’s thrilled when Stone makes him his boy slave and wears the studded leather collar with pride.
Product Link: http://www.lulu.com/shop/elaine-william-markowicz-alberto/the-masters-conflict/paperback/product-21109726.html?showPreview=true

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer:   Cat

Blurb:   Stone Peterson was as cold and hard as his name implied. Tossed from one foster home to the other is what gave Stone his cruel edge. He trusted no one. Men were for his pleasure only. Owning a leather bar, he had the choice of many. A guy would kill to be one night with Stone. But his method of fucking was rough and crude. He didn’t care who he hurt. That is, until he met Ian. 
Ian Holtz was a shy, retiring young man who felt shunned by his family. Always trying to please others, he would do anything to win Stone Peterson’s approval. Despite Stone’s cruel treatment, Ian loved him. He’s thrilled when Stone makes Ian his boy slave and wears the studded leather collar with pride. 
Stone’s bar Big Bear is in serious financial trouble. Someone is dipping into the till and cooking the books. He employs his one and only friend Gauge Matthews to do some digging into the theft. Ian warns Stone that Gauge is not to be trusted and Stone pushes him away in a rage. After all, he’d been friends with Gauge since he was nineteen. It was Gauge who introduced him into the exciting world of sex. Gauge is the only friend; the only person Stone ever trusted.
Using his powers as a witch, Ian summons a spell to bring to light the truth about Gauge, putting Stone into a rage. Through it all, Ian stands by Stone no matter how much he tries to push him out of his life. In the end Stone realizes what he has in Ian and accepts him as his equal.

Review: I love this cover!

Stone is the owner of a gay leather bar and a cold heartless man, but every one of its clientele come in hoping to be chosen by Stone for the night. They are aware he doesn’t do but one nighters but to have the opportunity is worth it. Gauge is Stone’s best friend and ex- lover. They still have sex from time to time and Gauge is honoured to be the only one Stone has sex with most often, even if it still is casual and he has never made love to Gauge.

Ian is a young, shy computer geek that has heard a lot of Stone and wanted to check the place out. Stone was taken by him immediately and chose him for a night, however Ian chickened out, but comes back to be chosen again.  He has fallen in love with Stone, but finds out Stone’s deepest darkest secrets. Can Ian still love Stone no matter what? You will have to get the book and see these secrets and how Ian deals with it. It’s surprising to say the least.

I have to say this book is extremely different. There are two separate stories actually sort of three going on simultaneously with both Stone and Ian, not counting a few side stories.

#1 is the budding romance between Ian and Stone.

This was intriguing, at first, but to me got a bit repetitive. Especially, the bar sex scenes and they were a lot of them and it felt like the same scene over and over. The fact Ian let Stone take his virginity so roughly without even knowing him didn’t fit his shy, character.

#2 is the dark secret that leads a paranormal air to the story.

This part really had premise, I was very intrigued at what was aspiring though.  I felt the way Ian took it so easily and not even acted a bit put off was a bit wild. However, once his twist got threw in, I actually like Ian’s character much better. and that he would do anything to protect his man, whether said man wanted his protection or help  or not. I loved this part of the book and that it was dark and chilling. Very different from normal paranormal and then it just dropped. Bam! After one pivotal thing, then it was never mentioned the rest of the book.  I also loved how Ian is shy as he was stood his ground and fought to win Stones love. Did he get it? You will have to read the book.

#3 is the BDSM aspect of the romance. To me this was so light that it could have been left out. The bar that was supposed to be a leather bar I never figure why. I also never got why the men thought it was such an honor to be taken by Stone since the sex was basically rough on your knees and leave. Then out of the blue he collars Ian. Though there was little D’s mentioned from that besides Stone telling him who he could and couldn’t talk to.

And there is the longstanding friendship / sexual relationship between Stone and Gauge. All the side-plots and friendships are sweet and lead connections to the above mentioned or support to Ian. A few of these were very cute. I especially adored Ian’s neighbour.

I really liked where the story seemed to be heading and I have to say I was surprised but loved the end. I would have loved to know more about the paranormal part how each man got that way and how they dealt with it in the future,. Especially why Stone‘s issues just disappeared (sorry I can’t really explain what I mean without a spoiler, but you will see when you read the book.)

I recommend this to anyone that likes, gay bars, rough sex, BDSM, Paranormal, a boy who will do anything to get his man, jealousy, some hot sex and a surprise but pleasant ending.

Heart Rating:  ♥♥2Hearts

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: Vampires, Witches and Silver Leather Daddy Bears, Oh My! I must admit I did a lot of head scratching while reading this story. More than once I mumbled a “what the fuck?” aloud. While I love a paranormal romance, and really enjoy a good BDSM story, this one had missing pieces, or maybe too many pieces. Warning that this story contains rape, murder by an unapologetic self-appointed master, and too many other components that I just couldn’t accept. While the title suggests BDSM, this book contains more of an abusive sex partner rather than a power exchange. I just couldn’t pull myself into the odd combination of witches, card readers, half vamps, and society acceptance or not of those beings. Not enough world building for a paranormal and I just could not get past someone accepting their sociopath partner’s blatant abuse of his lover and others, and murder without conscience. I need my MC to have redeeming qualities. Not really BDSM.

 

Kingfisher by Sam Makenzi

Kingfisher400x600Title: Kingfisher

Series: Monsters and Lovers, Book #2
  
Author: Sam Makenzi
  
Genre:  Paranormal, vampire

Length: Novella (145 pages)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (July 13th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts


Blurb:  Halcyon (“Hal”) is in love with Derek, the nurse at the local clinic. He’s open about his attraction to the other man, but is afraid to profess his real feelings. When he does, Hal will also have to come clean about his alternate identity as the killer-for-hire Kingfisher and about his unwitting role in the death of Derek’s parents ten years prior.

Product Link: http://spsilverpublishing.com/blog/2013/07/06/kingfisher-by-sam-makenzi/
 
Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: There sure is a lot of action packed into this short novella! Snipers, hot lovers, angst, and tragedy all combine to form a great fast-paced read. I was hooked into the plot immediately, and was cheering for Hal all the way through. Hal or Kingfisher as he’s otherwise known is one badass vamp with a sensitive side and I always enjoy that combination in a main character. My only complaint, which really is a compliment, is that I want more. The author plants many seeds of interest in the other characters so I can’t wait for the next installment in this series.

 

Cowboy Waltz by Cameron Dane

17927512Title:  Cowboy Waltz

Series:  N/A

Author:  Cameron Dane

Genre:  Contemporary, Cowboy & Western

Length:  Long Novel (393 pages)

Publisher:  Loose Id (July 16th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Blurb:  A horse stock manager on the rodeo tour, gruff cowboy Jed Hastings is in a bind. He needs a new assistant yesterday. Enter green-as-hell Booker West. Booker spent his childhood dreaming about being a part of the rodeo. He doesn’t have any experience working with horses, but Jed doesn’t have options, and gives the newbie a chance.

Innocent about the world and secretly gay, Booker works like the devil to hide his attraction to Jed. He doesn’t just want to be a wannabe-cowboy with a crush; he wants to learn from Jed. Booker craves Jed’s respect, friendship, and trust. For Jed, he knows an eager young colt like Booker should work his last nerve, yet he finds he has endless patience with the guy. He’s possessive about Booker too. And while bunking together does create intimacy, that doesn’t explain away straight Jed’s explicit sexual fantasies and growing desire for another man.

When a life-altering event sends Jed and Booker reeling, a night of raw passion between the men finally explodes. But in the light of day, can Booker help Jed accept their love? Or will this unearthed attraction send Jed to a dark place from which he can’t recover? 

Product Link:  http://www.loose-id.com/cowboy-waltz.html

Reviewer:  Astrid

Review:  I love Cameron Dane, and am a huge fan. I have read every book I could get my hands on and devoured and cherished them all.

The pacing was perfect. We meet Booker at 19 and he spends the next four years growing up. We see bits and pieces of Booker as he matures and struggles to hide his feelings for Jed. I think this was handled beautifully. Jed beginning to feel tingles of awareness of Booker was also lovely and exciting.

I don’t usually dissect a book when I review, but this one has me trying to identify why I didn’t fall head over heels for this book. I love angsty reads, if it makes me cry my tush off then it’s practically a shoe in for my comfort food shelf. This book made me cry, ugly cries – a few times! Buuuut… *shrugs* I get that Jed had to face some really tough truths about himself – that would knock anyone on their ass. I agree everyone reacts differently to scary shit. Yet I had a hard time with how Jed went from alpha strong guy to needy and tragic. I got tired of the storm/black clouds metaphor and wanted to shake Jed and tell him to get a grip, and pull up his big boy pants. This is awful, because I’m normally the most sympathetic person you’ll meet.

Booker though, gosh, I think I’m in love with him. To watch him grow, mature, and handle some tough kicks and to keep going after Jed, his love – was wonderful. He learned to be strong when Jed could not; he tried to always put what was best for Jed first – even when he didn’t have enough experience to know the right course. There is nothing sexier than watching someone do what needs to be done, even when it hurts. In the end love does conquer all and I loved the rock solid HEA.

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Reviewer: Cat

Review: Booker is a young man that has rodeo in the blood. Jed sees that from the start and takes a chance that a greenhorn is better than the worthless hand he has now.  He talks his boss into letting him hire Booker.  Jed loves nothing more than the rodeo and his brother and mother.  His lifestyle keeps him from getting into relationships with women, and he isn’t the friendly type but Booker brings out feelings in him he doesn’t want to face.

 Booker knows he is gay and he also knows his feelings for Jed are more than friendship but he is happy with being room-mates. At least until Jed realizes there is more and starts running from his feelings instead of owning them. 

This is a very heartfelt book of denial. The story is full of angst and deep emotions of friendship, love, relationships, being gay and just being in love period.  Its one heck of a rollercoaster ride with Jed’s feelings going up and down and hot and cold, but in the end, the story is worth holding on tight and hanging on until the end of the ride. I will warn you be ready to rip out Jed’s heart, more than once or slap him silly LOL.

Recommendation: If you like heartfelt stories, friends to lovers, closeted gay, true love that’s hard won, happy endings, and very explicit very hot and steamy mansex and of course Cowboys and horses, this is definitely for you..

Vamp by Rob Rosen

VampCoverSmallTitle: Vamp

Series: Fangtastic Misadventure of the Supernatural
  
Author: Rob Rosen
  
Genre:  Paranormal, Vampire, Humor, Horror

Length: Novel

Publisher: MLR Press, LLC (July 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:  Let your bat wings soar in this fangtastic misadventure of the supernatural.
Fine, the coffin in the basement was a little unusual. Certainly no more so than the mansion itself, though, or, for that matter, the humpbacked manservant that came with it, or the mysterious death of its former owner. In fact, so starts a long list of all things unusual for our unlikely hero, Jack, and his newfound and strange family, his werewolf boyfriend, the pack eager to help him, and the ancient clan that wants him dead at all costs. Know this, however, in the end, this misfit group of characters will leave you howling in the crypt aisles!

Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=RR__VAMP

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: To say that this was stupendously silly and outrageous would be in the authors words “An Obese Overstatement”! This story is full of camp, I mean vamp, as in CAMPY, vampy. There is of course the Queerwolf from our earlier foray into Christopher Moore-ish writing adventures. Then we are reintroduced to the former “baddie” alpha werewolf Steven Littleton, who is of course gasp-worthy good-looking. We have werewolves in drag, were-pires or should I say Queerpires, Vamps, hump-backed family trees, the mailman’s Adonis-like spawn, goiters, vamp class warfare, lots of quick fucks, and tongue in cheek laughs, pun intended. A lot is thrown at you, along with all the spears. If you understand and appreciate the writing of one of Rob Rosen’s heroes, Christopher Moore, (which I have) you will be able to understand the style and sense of humor that Rosen is trying to resurrect. If you haven’t previously read Moore, well…you’re on your own, I can’t help you.

The Truth about Riley by Henrietta Clarke

18103276Title: The Truth about Riley

Series: The Truth about Riley, Book #1

Author: Henrietta Clarke

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (318 pages)

Publisher: Bottom Drawer Publications (July 10th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Riley Aylworth’s life has been completely devoid of intimate contact since a fire three years ago left him with horrific facial scarring, so when he finds an ad for a phone sex service, he decides to give it a call. Except that the number is not a phone sex service—it’s the revenge Cameron Kirkwood’s ex-boyfriend took on the uptight advertising executive after Cam forgot their anniversary and accidentally put him in the hospital. Needless to say, after thirty-nine disturbing calls seeking phone sex, Cameron is at the end of his tether and yells at his fortieth caller. What he doesn’t expect is for Riley to hit redial and yell right back.

The argument helps both Cameron and Riley vent about their issues, and when they’ve calmed down, they decide to exchange numbers and talk again. From this decision springs a friendship that, over time, grows into a gentle romance—all over the phone, because Riley is too scared to meet Cam in person. Showing a potential boyfriend his disfigured face is the fastest way to be rejected, right? Even a month of scorching hot phone sex can’t change his mind, no matter how hard Cam tries to persuade him that with their phone chemistry, the sex would be so much better in person.

Meanwhile, Cam is haunted by the scarred blond he seems to be seeing everywhere, and Riley can’t get the handsome brunet who always seems happy to see him out of his mind. It’s a shock to both men to realize that the guy they’re falling for over the phone is also the man who brightens their day with just a smile; but it’s one thing to let a stranger smile at you and quite another to let him close enough to see into your soul. If Riley can’t break down the walls in his mind and believe that Cameron loves him in spite of his scars, their relationship may be doomed before they’ve even had a chance to kiss.

Product Link: http://www.bottomdrawerpublications.net/#!the-truth-about-riley/c1igv

Review: Three years ago his life changed from a fire accident. What used to be a player, a handsome young man, full of life and confidence turned into a hideous monster, scarred for life and doomed to be lonely. That’s how Riley sees himself, and that’s how he believes everybody else sees him. His loneliness is out of proportions and in a weak moment, he picks up his phone and calls a phone-sex service line.

Cameron had the shock of his life when his, for 4 years, partner dumps him on their fourth anniversary. Yes, of course Cameron screwed up what with being a workaholic, and then he had different dreams from his ex, and to top it all he unwillingly poisoned his ex on their anniversary by giving him some sweet thing that had nuts in it causing his ex a huge allergic shock and a trip at the hospital. But really did he have to simply dump him like that and throw away for years of their life? And if you think that was all, a series of calls came asking for phone sex… How vindictive could one be to do such a thing to him? Not only is Cam lonely but he now has to fend of pervs that upon being told they got the wrong number they insisted on him providing some phone sex anyway because he had the voice. It was number forty that had to deal with the blast though, because by that time Cam simply couldn’t control himself anymore and simply wanted to yell.

Want to guess who lucky number forty was?

I loved this book. It was sensitive in so many ways, it showed how loneliness doesn’t affect only those that are outwardly scarred, but that there are also inward ones that make for a huge amount of hurt. It was lovely how the author got around this topic, a mastery in itself, and made you think really hard about who we are deep inside and how we view things as well.

On top of that, this book was also hilarious and fun. Cam and Riley are two very well written characters, their personality solid and multidimensional, and they work quite well together. The chemistry between them is charming and gripping even if 99% of the book has them on the phone and not having met in person. And THAT was the real surprise for me. I don’t quite know how I feel about it to be honest. Sometimes I think it got stretched a bit too much, others I think it worked well and in all honesty I was kept on my toes the entire read, waiting for that big moments when they’d met to come. When it came was simply “awww” and *sniff* and yeah, left me simply feeling and not thinking much. It was good, it was sexy, hot, and sensual, and damn it I wanted more. Down side was, it was the end of the book. Literally!

Fear not though, there is a second book coming and following Cam’s and Riley’s relationship now together body and soul. I can’t wait for that one, because as sexy as the phone sex was, as masterfully as it was written, I really, really wanted more face-to-face time with this couple. They are so good for each other that I can’t wait to see them in a more intimate scene.

Bottom end, book one in Riley and Cam’s adventures was great. I loved it and enjoyed every second of it. Give it a shot and let it grip you as it did me.

 

Cataclysmic Shift by Tara Lain

18196945Title: Cataclysmic Shift

Series: The Aloysius Tales 03

Author: Tara Lain

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novel (222pgs)

Publisher: Loose Id (23rd July 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Super cat, Aloysius, may be the most powerful witch’s familiar in the world, but when he takes a blast at the hand of an evil witch he loses it all — power, memory, and his feline form — to become the ethereal human beauty, Alain Bellarose. When Alain wakes up naked on the floor surrounded by dogs and cats, his eyes first set upon Luke Elliott, the handsome and mysterious veterinarian. Suddenly, the prospect of being human doesn’t seem so bad.

Luke has a lot to hide and he likes animals way more than people, but he can’t resist the flamboyant boy who washes his face with the side of his hand and tries to lick his own privates! The loss of Aloysius depletes Witch Master Killian Barth’s power and that of his “secret weapon” Sammy and leaves their coven sitting ducks for two very nasty women. When Alain discovers that he’s really a powerful cat, he’s faced with the ultimate choice. To protect his community, or surrender his power and stay with the man he loves.

Purchase Link: http://www.loose-id.com/the-aloysius-tales-3-cataclysmic-shift.html

Review: This story is part of a series and must be read in order. Aloysius is a powerful witch’s familiar but when he saves Blaine and Killian from a witch’s attack he loses everything – his power, his memory and his cat form – he wakes up human surround by cats and dogs with a vague memory of his name, Alain, and not much else. Luckily, for Alain he is in the hands of attractive vet Luke who helps him out with clothes, a place to stay and a job. Luke is shocked when he comes across a naked man in his vet clinic but the innocence in the man’s eyes has him helping him out, but Luke is hiding from his past, which could bring down all he has built and Alain nearly is dragged into danger. Killian’s power is greatly depleted with the loss of Aloysius, with evil witches determined to take over the coven Killian needs Aloysius now more than ever but with Aloysius stuck in human form the prospects look dire.

Ah damn what a twisted tale this series has become, with the European covens determined to rule and a nasty man from Luke’s past, we are also treated to a dilemma when Aloysius/Alain regains his memories. Luke is a great character who hides from his shady past, it took him years to get where he is as a vet and he does not intend to ever revisit his past. When Luke meets Alain, he is bewitched by his beauty but he resists the pull of attraction for as long as he can, especially as Alain has no real memories of his own. Alain is drawn to Luke and can be quite persuasive and although he is enjoying his new life to the fullest, he knows that he has forgotten something important. Bring in Killian, Blaine, Sammy, and Ryder as they try to protect their coven and discover how they can get Aloysius back but then a dilemma happens when Alain falls in love with Luke, how can they ask him to give up his love to give them back their power?

I loved this story as the threads were drawn together, weaving a tale that pulls us in different directions as we want Alain and Luke to get their happily ever after, but we also want Killian and the coven to win against the attacks. Luke is unaware of magic so his part in the story is of a very human aspect that Alain also gets dragged into, their relationship is pretty incredible and Aloysius as human is both sweet and funny and they make a delightful couple. We then have the magical aspect with Killian and Sammy being affected by the loss of Aloysius and being attacked by witches wanting power for themselves. This was beautifully done and you are pulled in from the very first page, we see their plight as Aloysius/Alain is torn in different directions and Luke’s heartbreak and devastation upon learning the truth. There are some very amusing scenes as Alain still has some very cat-like traits.  

I recommend this to those that love magical dilemma’s, falling in love, danger from both human and magical attacks, a great story and a brilliant surprising ending.  

 

Seeing Red by E.L. Esch

ele_seingredTitle: Seeing Red

Author: E.L. Esch

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (213pgs)

Publisher: Loose Id (16th July 2013)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: What would you do if you lost five years of freedom? If everything you’d ever known was torn away from you, all because the one person you counted on to save you didn’t come through?

This is the cruel reality for Gabriel “Red” Thatcher, convicted at age nineteen for the murder of his father. Now twenty-five and eight months out of prison, Red has nothing to his name and no one to help him. He is carrying close to him a rage hotter than white flames. Had his sister just testified on his behalf in court, he could have been spared the horrible things that happened to him in the doghouse. Things that’ll make him never look at intimacy the same way again.

Red can’t take swallowing his bitter rage alone anymore. Unable to kill the growing loneliness and ire with time, he heads into the Flower District in search of a gay bar to drown his sorrows. There he meets the bubbly, easy-on-the-eyes Silo Winters.

When Red learns that Silo did three years in prison for an accidental oil fire, he brings Silo home, not so much for a wild romp as to relieve his aching loneliness. Besides if anyone will understand Red’s pain it’ll be Silo, who’s gone through some of the same horrors he has. However, he definitely doesn’t count on Silo becoming so much more than a sexy shoulder to lean on. Now, if only Red can learn to let him in.

Purchase Link: http://www.loose-id.com/seeing-red.html

Review: For five years Red suffered in prison, everything he had was torn away from him because of one-act of protection and the one person who could help him kept quiet. Red has been out of prison for eight months and has been struggling to find his feet, his anger at his sister for not coming forward sooner is blazing, and his time in prison has left him emotionally scarred. When Red meets Silo in a bar, he takes pity on the man who is in a similar position to himself and lets the man stay with him for the night, one night becomes one week, and soon Red finds himself with a roommate who wants to be more. Silo served three years in prison and had many of the same experiences as Red did, but Silo refuses to let it haunt him. Falling for Red is hard as Red seems determined to hug his hurt to him and let it poison him, but Silo has fallen for the man and can only hope that he can crack the shell that Red has encased himself in.

This is a great story of two men who both suffered in prison but who have reacted differently to the experience. Red’s story will break your heart, it is a story that is fraught with injustice and a scared sister and the terrible experience that still lingers. Silo’s story is nearly as heart breaking, a stupid drunken prank that led to prison and the attentions of a demanding cellmate. These men come together at one of the lowest points in their lives but they both react differently to their pasts. Silo puts it all behind him and embraces the life he is creating, Red hugs his experiences to him and lets them guide his actions and emotions, but together these men begin to move forward more.

Both Red and Silo are great characters in their own ways; they complement each other and help each other just by being there. Silo is a bubbly character and hasn’t let prison get to him, Red is cranky, and his prison experience tinges everything. Silo is just the type of person that Red needs to heal his hurts but it isn’t easy for Silo to crack Red’s shell. Red at first believes that Silo is as affected as he is but soon realizes that he has been projecting his own troubles on Silo. It really is amazing to watch them together and to see Red heal slowly with Silo’s help. Their relationship progresses slowly from friendship to love and it is wonderfully done, while Silo was willing to go full throttle from the start Red held them back and it has a much better effect for their whole relationship.

I recommend this to those who love damaged men finding love after a long struggle, forgiveness, comfort, peace and a great storyline.  

 

 

Raven's Dream by Kam Miller

raven-s-dream-portland-pack-2-Title: Raven’s Dream

Series: Portland Pack, 02

Author: Kam Miller

Genre: Paranormal, Shifter

Length: Novel (167pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (29th December 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Cale and Raven know they are mates. They have avoided claiming each other because of their nightmare pasts. To overcome his fears Cale must take a chance even though his past is threatening to ruin any future he may have.

Ten years ago, Cale escaped the slavery that he lived in his entire life. In the process, he met his mate. Raven is everything Cale could have wished for in a mate but he is unable to let go of the past in order be the mate that Raven deserves.

Raven has watched over and protected Cale since he showed up barely alive on his Alpha’s doorstep. He has dreamed of holding his mate for ten years but needs to wait for when Cale is ready.

After Raven is injured, Cale finds the strength to let go of his past and take a chance on his future. But Cale’s past rears its ugly head and threatens everything they hold dear.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/ravens-dream-ebook-p-848.html

Review: This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Ten years ago, Cale escaped the horror of his life to help his friend, for the last ten years he has led a life he thought he would never, the only thing that he regrets is that his mate doesn’t seem to want him. For ten years Raven has watched his mate from a distance, keeping Cale at arm’s length so the man can heal from the traumas of the past, and after advice from his friends decides the time is right to court his mate, but, Raven is confronted by Cale about his relationship with Storm and crossed wires mean that both men are hurt. While Raven goes off to think things through someone from his past rears his ugly head and both Raven and Cale are in danger.

This is a good continuation of the Portland Pack series, bringing us Cale and Raven’s story. We met both characters in Liam’s Happiness and it really is best to read that story first so you understand a lot of what Cale went through. Raven is a man with a long past and in this story that past comes back with a vengeance, Cale also reveals more about his past, which helps the Portland Pack and allies to rescue more abused wolves. Raven and Cale have a rough start to their relationship when Cale misunderstands Raven’s relationship with Storm, and it sends them in a tailspin and they both have to be honest with each other about their pasts.

I enjoyed this story and the development of the storyline, Raven and Cale are a very well suited couple but because Raven never explained why he was waiting to claim Cale meant that Cale thought Raven didn’t want him, so there is some angsty moments, we also have some passionate moments between Cale and Raven that shows how hard waiting was for both of them. The action in this story is good and we see some of the characters from the previous book, with some new ones being added.

I will recommend this to those who love shifters, men who stand tall against their pasts, who can brave the past, men who let their mates recover, who have hot sex and begin to get their happily ever after.